Celebrating wins against plastic pollution
Achievements in reducing plastic waste
For many of us, the constant stream of terrible statistics about plastic waste has become almost overwhelming. We know that millions of tonnes are ending up in our oceans every year, we know that microplastics are contaminating our food chains. But sometimes we think, what difference can I make?
Well, there is good news! Over the past decade the global fight against plastic pollution has made significant strides. And in South Africa too, real progress is being made in reducing plastic waste and protecting our natural environment.
Let’s celebrate a few of the highlights in the fight against plastic pollution in South Africa:
Policy support: The South African government implemented an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policy in 2020 to ensure that manufacturers are accountable for the lifecycle of their products, creating incentives for better design and a circular economy.
Corporate initiatives: The SA Plastics Pact (of which 43 of SA’s largest brands are members) is a driving force in eliminating plastic waste by manufacturers and retailers. According to their annual report, 34.7 million “problematic or unnecessary” plastic items were diverted from landfills between 2021 and 2022.
Public awareness: Non-profit initiatives such as the Million Plus Plastic Recyclers are using fun videos to educate the next generation about the value of recycling and distributing WhatsApp campaigns with easy tips to mobilise local communities.
Recycling rates: Thanks to better sorting technologies and greater public participation, recycling rates in our country have improved dramatically – from the overall recycling rate of only 19.6% in 2014. And in 2023, SA had a plastic recycling rate of 46%, which is much higher than the average plastic recycling rate of 31% in Europe.
Informal recycling: South Africa has a highly effective informal waste ecosystem of 60,000 – 90,000 waste pickers, and they play a crucial role in the country's recycling efforts. They collect and sort waste materials that might otherwise end up in landfills, contributing significantly to the recycling rate.
Consumer choices: More and more consumers are making more eco-friendly choices, like using reusable bags and bottles, contributing to a reduction in single-use plastic demand.
Plastic alternatives: Made from natural materials, biodegradable plastics break down more easily and have become more affordable and widely available. Reusable products made from glass, stainless steel, and bamboo have gained popularity, replacing disposable items.
Product packaging: Many companies are reducing their plastic product packaging, or using compostable packaging that decomposes into non-toxic residues.
New technologies: Increases in the economic value of different plastics as part of the manufacturing supply chain, has resulted in technological advances to better process even previously un-recyclable plastics – turning them back into raw materials for new products.
Join the plastic revolution with WastePlan
These achievements show that when we work together, we can turn the tide against plastic pollution. That is why at WastePlan we are continually pursuing ground-breaking solutions for traditionally non-recyclable plastics. From innovative sorting technologies to advanced processing methods, we’re leading the charge towards a greener, more sustainable future for all.
So, next time you have plastic waste to dispose of, think twice before tossing it in the trash. Instead, let us collect it from you. Together, we can make a difference and ensure a brighter future for our whole planet, and all the creatures that call it home.